PCC statement after disorder in Hull

I speak today on behalf of most of our residents in this city, I utterly condemn the violence and disorder that affected the city of Hull, its communities and our police service yesterday. The scenes witnessed are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. These events do not honour the loss of the three children in Southport and the devastation their families will be facing, where all of our thoughts should be at this moment.

We were lucky enough to have the City of Culture 2017 in Hull, this goes alongside a long-standing history of being welcoming and culturally diverse. We have a heritage for acceptance and tolerance with figure heads such as William Wilberforce. Hull is, and will continue to be, a city we are proud of.

I am concerned and angry that police officers have been injured, property has been destroyed, and businesses heavily disrupted. I have been in contact with the Chief Constable and other senior officers to determine the level of damage caused. I know that Humberside Police will work to find the offenders and help bring them to justice.

I want to reassure people that, today, the city centre is safe to visit. Police officers, fire fighters, Hull City Council and volunteers have worked tirelessly to clean up the city and make it a safe space again for its residents and visitors.